We've recently received great news on both the North Carolina and Tennessee sides of Corridor K.

In North Carolina, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has recently agreed with our position that the North Carolina Department of Transportation must consider upgrading the existing two-lane roads in Graham County as an alternative to building a new four-lane highway. In a letter dated October 20, 2009, the Corps stated that "we agree that the alternative of upgrading and improving existing two-lane roadways should be given full consideration as a practical alternative." The letter specifically cited "the numerous comments received in response to the public notice" as part of the basis of its decision. As a result of this order, NCDOT will now have to prepare a new draft Environmental Impact Statement and conduct another round of public notice and comment. See the Corps letter and the press release we and other groups issued in response.

In Tennessee, the state Department of Transportation recently issued the list of alternatives it will consider, and the list includes upgrading existing Highway 64 as well as both two- and four-lane new construction alternatives. Preliminary cost estimates show that upgrading Highway 64 is by far the most fiscally responsible option. See the list of options and accompanying map.

Thanks to everyone who has made their opinions known to the Corps and the DOTs for making these great results possible, and let's keep the pressure on the agencies to do the right thing when they make their final decisions!